Beer necessities: The best La Jolla bars to grab a cold one

Last Updated on March 9, 2026

Whether it’s International Beer Day, Happy Hour or a relaxing Sunday, here’s where to belly up in La Jolla.

Hop to it, La Jolla! From beer enthusiasts to those looking for a refreshing ale after a sunny day, anyone looking for their next frothy adventure will find no shortage of local choices that raise the bar.

Searching for a stout? Pondering a Pilsner? We’ve rounded up the best bars in La Jolla for you to catch up with a buddy, cheer on your team or simply unwind.

1. Beaumont’s Eatery

A Bird Rock staple, Beaumont’s Eatery on La Jolla Boulevard is the perfect spot for a draft beer that pairs with any number of their diverse dishes and conversations among the locals.

Run by longtime La Jollan residents, Beaumont’s also offers a nightly happy hour menu with deals on their favorite food and beverages, along with live music often and special events, easily making it one of the best bars La Jolla has.

And no beer pressure here! Beaumont’s also proudly serves handcrafted seasonal cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks for those who are looking for community without the keg.

2. Hennessey’s Tavern

If an evening of merriment is on tap, head to Hennessey’s Tavern on Herschel Avenue for some Irish hospitality served with beer and bites.

Tuck yourself into the corner with a friend or stretch out at the firepit with a group and treat yourself to comfort in a glass of Guinness.

But we heartily welcome deviations: Hennessey’s beer and shot combos like “The Irishman” with Guinness & Paddy Irish whiskey or “The West Coast” with Pacifico & Espero Blanco tequila or one of their signature cocktails never fails to delight at a price point we can get behind.

3. Nautilus Tavern

Out and about in Windansea? We’re beer for a good time at Nautilus Tavern on La Jolla Boulevard, where entertainment isn’t all that’s brewing.

Tap into any number of beers at this La Jolla bar, which also has specials on pours during Padres games as well as ongoing deals for all kinds of sports games.

Add wings, nachos and sandwiches, along with other creative takes on classic dishes, and everyone leaves happy.

With a dog-friendly patio, trivia nights and weekend music events, Nautilus Tavern is among the best bars in La Jolla for fun with the locals in an easygoing atmosphere.

4. Public House

Get your barley’s worth at Public House on Kline Street in The Village, where the tagline “Burgers and Ales” is no exaggeration.

In addition to delicious food options in a relaxing, outdoor environment, Public House boasts an impressive array of craft beers from around the world, along with limited release and hard to find brews. If you’re looking for bars in La Jolla with variety, this is the place.

The rotating list also makes participation in Public House’s “80/80 Club” easy: drink 80 beers in 80 days to earn your spot on the wall of fame, a personalized gift and entry to exclusive events.

5. Shore Rider

Along Avenida de la Playa in La Jolla Shores is Shore Rider, an open-air spot with cold drinks, satisfying food and warm service that embodies the beach vibe we crave.

With more than a dozen local brews on draft, straightforward plates designed to delight and “Pint Night” every Thursday with beer specials and raffle prizes, along with several bottled beers and creative cocktails, we think Shore Rider is a glass act.

Shore Rider considers itself an extension of the beach, with a “no shirt, no shoes, no problem” mantra that dishes up fun and relaxation, further enticing us to imbibe.

6. The Spot

No list of La Jolla bars is complete without The Spot La Jolla, a classic pub-like space on Prospect Street in The Village that for more than 45 years has been a pint of interest for sports lovers and beer drinkers alike.

Based on the owners’ previous years in Chicago, The Spot is La Jolla’s answer to those asking for a deep dish and a good game, although the extensive menu features friendly, approachable fare designed to sate any craving.

Pop in for lunch, happy hour, dinner or a late-night bite – The Spot is always pouring as one of the fun bars in La Jolla!

7. Wheat & Water

Last but not yeast: Wheat & Water, a Bird Rock entry just a block from the shoreline. This local destination on La Jolla Boulevard is pitcher perfect for its varied Happy Hour deals, along with rotating daily specials.

Wheat & Water opened in 2016, reliably serving up pizzas, shared plates and more with its myriad beers from local and national breweries.

Grab a friend or a few and head on over to this favorite among La Jolla bars, where locals and newcomers are welcomed alike with a cold glass of the best.

Still thirsty? Peruse our thoughts on great cocktails in La Jolla or more places at lajolla.ca/explore.